England chasing 320 to beat South Africa: Women’s Cricket World Cup semi-final – live

Steve Borthwick's decision to select Northampton's centre as a key player for the upcoming match against Australia highlights his strategic approach to team selection. This choice reflects the importance of having a 'glue' player who can unify the team amidst a pool of talented backs. As England prepares for this crucial game, Borthwick's insights into the slim margins that can determine victory or defeat underscore the competitive nature of rugby at this level.

South Africa has made history by securing a spot in their first-ever World Cup final after a stunning victory over England. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led the charge with an impressive 169 runs, while Marizanne Kapp's exceptional bowling performance, taking five wickets for just 20 runs, sealed the deal. This achievement not only highlights the growing strength of South African women's cricket but also sets the stage for an exciting final, capturing the attention of fans worldwide.

In an upcoming match against England, former Australian rugby captain George Gregan has highlighted that the team will focus on exploiting Tommy Freeman's defensive skills at outside-centre. This strategic move is crucial as Australia aims to gain an advantage in their autumn campaign at Twickenham, especially after England's previous defeat to them. Understanding the dynamics of player positions and defensive capabilities can significantly impact the game's outcome, making this matchup one to watch.

England's Lionesses kicked off their World Cup preparations with a mixed bag of results, suffering a defeat to Brazil but bouncing back with a win against Australia. This first camp of the year marked a new chapter for the team after their recent European Championship victory. The friendly matches revealed areas for improvement, particularly in defense, as they gear up for the World Cup. Understanding these strengths and weaknesses is crucial for the team's success in the upcoming tournament.

Housebuilders are expressing concerns that the government's target of building 1.5 million new homes in England is overly ambitious. This matters because failing to meet housing targets can exacerbate the ongoing housing crisis, making it harder for people to find affordable homes and potentially impacting the economy.

In a disappointing turn of events, England's cricket team faced another defeat against New Zealand, losing the second ODI by five wickets. Despite Jofra Archer's impressive return to the game, the team's batting struggles led to a total of just 175 runs, which proved insufficient. Daryl Mitchell's unbeaten 56 helped secure the win for New Zealand, highlighting England's ongoing issues with consistency. This loss not only means the series is lost for England but also raises questions about their performance as they head into future matches.

England's rugby coach Shaun Wane faces crucial decisions ahead of the second Test, particularly regarding his halfback combination and the selection of his pack. After a disappointing performance, Wane is urged to make bold changes to improve the team's chances against Australia. This situation is significant as it highlights the pressure on Wane to adapt and innovate, which could ultimately determine England's success in the series.

Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett highlights the importance of play in early childhood education, arguing that the current rigid classroom structure in England fails to cater to young children's innate learning needs. Ruth Lue-Quee, a former deputy headteacher, emphasizes that childhood should not be confined to traditional schooling, advocating for a system that embraces play as a fundamental aspect of learning. This perspective is crucial as it challenges outdated educational practices and calls for a more nurturing approach that recognizes the value of play in fostering creativity and development in young learners.

The Carabao Cup matches featuring Arsenal against Brighton and Swansea facing Manchester City are underway, with updates streaming live. This tournament is crucial for teams looking to secure silverware early in the season, and fans are eager to see how their clubs perform in this knockout format. The excitement builds as the matches progress, and every goal could change the dynamics of the competition.

Liverpool is set to face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, with the match kicking off at 7.45pm GMT. This game is significant as it showcases two competitive teams in a knockout format, adding excitement for fans and potential implications for their season. The live updates will keep supporters engaged as they follow the action.

As the Netherlands prepares for its parliamentary election, polls indicate that Geert Wilders' far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) may secure the top position. However, major opposition parties have already stated they will not form a coalition with him, which raises questions about the future political landscape. Interestingly, voters can cast their ballots in unique locations, including the Anne Frank House and a children's zoo in Amsterdam, highlighting the country's commitment to engaging citizens in the democratic process.

The article discusses the alarming reality that Jews do not feel safe in Britain or America, highlighting a growing concern over antisemitism in these countries. This matters because it raises questions about the safety and security of minority communities, prompting a broader conversation about tolerance and protection in society.

Hurricane Melissa is wreaking havoc in the Caribbean, with a dangerous storm surge expected in the Bahamas and reports of dozens of fatalities in Haiti. The mayor of a coastal town in Haiti is urgently calling for government assistance as the storm continues to impact the region. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable communities during natural disasters, emphasizing the need for timely support and resources.

In a recent dinner on the sidelines of the APEC summit, US President Donald Trump praised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, highlighting their productive meeting in Washington. This positive diplomatic exchange is significant as it strengthens ties between the two nations. Additionally, Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen announced a notable decrease in wholesale electricity prices, which could lead to lower energy costs for consumers. This development is crucial for Australians facing rising living costs, making it a timely and impactful update.